The Coastal Traveller at MGM Springfield

As part of the highly anticipated arrival of Massachusetts’ first gaming resort, MGM Springfield will unleash the excitement and energy of its open-air plaza Saturday, Aug. 25 when it features a powerful performance by the Boston-based punk rock band Dropkick Murphys. Fresh off a whirlwind 2018 international summer tour, the Dropkick Murphys will be the first to perform on The Plaza at MGM Springfield – the heart of New England’s first integrated resort destination.

MGM Springfield covers three city blocks in the heart of downtown Springfield, Mass. Igniting a cultural and economic renaissance in a historic New England city, the approximately 2 million square-foot development, which combines new construction with revived historic buildings, will offer more than 125,000 square feet of gaming space, a 250-room boutique hotel on Main Street and superior spa services, diverse retail and inspired dining headlined by award-winning Chef Michael Mina’s Cal Mare. MGM Springfield also will feature the seven-screen Regal luxury cinema complex, bowling lanes, a seasonal skating rink and outdoor marketplace displaying local art, events and talent.

Kicking off the festivities at 10:30 a.m. at the corner of State and Main Streets, Downtown Springfield will be treated to a lively procession featuring the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales and other surprise entertainment alongside hundreds of the resort’s employees, construction workers and local dignitaries. Guests are invited to view the procession as it heads down Main Street and ends at the entrance to the property.

Once the procession has arrived at MGM Springfield, doors will officially open, welcoming guests in to experience the energy and excitement of New England’s first integrated luxury resort and entertainment destination.

“What a way to kick off our opening weekend!,” said Talia Spera, executive director of entertainment for MGM Springfield. “MGM is the entertainment leader and we are committed to building an event calendar full of stellar entertainment inside and out. This is another first for the city and New England, and we’re excited to introduce new traditions to our MGM Springfield guests.”

As part of the highly anticipated arrival of Massachusetts’ first gaming resort, MGM Springfield will introduce a refined steakhouse experience to downtown Springfield when the resort opens on August 24. The Chandler Steakhouse – located in the site of the former Chandler Hotel – will be a memorable dinner destination, where guests can indulge in the region’s finest steaks and seafood.

With “Hell’s Kitchen” Season 14 winner Meghan Gill serving as executive chef and MGM Resorts International Corporate Mixologist Craig Schoettler overseeing its cocktail program, the restaurant will offer a contemporary twist on classic dishes and libations.

“The Chandler will be a dining experience that is completely unique to the region yet still reflective of Springfield’s vibrant community,” said Gill. “Guests will have a chance to explore some of the best food this area has to offer in an eclectic, inviting space.”

The MGM Resorts portfolio encompasses 28 unique hotel offerings including some of the most recognizable resort brands in the industry. Expanding throughout the U.S. and around the world, the company opened MGM Cotai in Macau in February 2018. It is also developing MGM Springfield in Massachusetts and debuting the first international Bellagio branded hotel in Shanghai.